When the new multi-million pound Elmbridge Leisure Centre was designed councillors decided not to replace the tank claiming it was not making enough money. Molesey Boat Club is now asking Elmbridge Borough Council for permission to build its own rowing tank to train on during the winter months. As part of the scheme the club at Barge Walk wants to build 18 parking spaces and an outside storage area for boats on public land. A children’s play area on the recreation ground will be re-sited closer to the river. Bernard Day who lives in nearby Graburn Way said he was incensed by the club’s plans. “The proposal is to take over a large space of public recreation ground and this fact is not publicly known,” he said. “There is a danger people will not understand this recreation ground is under threat. “It is fair enough to build a rowing tank but it would bring extra traffic and extra parking problems. “To take over this recreation ground would be a mistake.” In a letter of objection to the council he said he had caught members of the boat club parking on the towpath. He wrote: “The open space was bequeathed by a benefactor to local people and already has been seriously built upon for the bussing-in of money making groups who not only make a hideous amount of noise, without being reprimanded, but leave litter behind without care.” Another angry resident, Sonia O’Sullivan, said she objected to the boat club taking over the play area. “The play area is attractive for very young children and their parents to play and relax as it is a safe enclosed area where children can run around as well as use the swings.” “I think it would be very unfair of the boat club to take land from young children and use it for parking cars. I notice that a lot of people driving to the club travel alone where they could possibly team up, save space at the club and help save the environment.” Cllr John Sheldon, who is a member of the club, said residents should not be worried about an increase in noise and traffic as a result of the plans. “They are mistaken,” he said. We do not expect there to be any more cars. “You will not see any significant increases in traffic.” He said people who parked on the footpath were not connected with the club. “Members will be suggested to park in Hurst Meadows at the public car park. “We are convinced that with the 18 new spaces it would be better for parking,” he said. He added that users of the recreation land should not be worried about losing access. “The place where the children’s playground is will be located closer to the river. It is a much better place,” he said. “There will be full public access to the river. “The club has consulted extensively with riverside residents association. Their wishes have been accommodated in the plans.” Cllr Sheldon said the current application was hardly any different to plans the boat club had already had approved. “There are no buildings on the new land. The open nature of the land will be preserved,” he said. The application (2006/1538) is available to view at the civic centre in Esher.